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Women of Africa: a powerful untapped economic force

The value of investing in female education in Africa

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"If you educate a man you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman you educate a family (nation)." James Kwegyir-Aggrey Ghanaian Educationalist,1875 – 1927

An educated woman will not only provide an invaluable resource within an organization, she will also be equipped to expand entrepreneurial activities, be employed or be an employer in the formal sector, and harness the multiplier effect within her family and community.

Improving education is a key way of assisting African women to enter and help grow the economy. Educating girls and women in particular is highlighted as key to gender equality; leading to higher wages, a greater likelihood of working outside the home, lower fertility, reduced maternal and child mortality, and improved intergenerational health and education.

Women's economic participation drives increased GDP, better governance within political structures and improved performance within organizations. The primary focus should be on better education for girls and women to overcome barriers to their full economic participation in the Africa growth story.

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